Philadelphia 76ers: 15 greatest seasons in franchise history

6. 1979-80 season (59-23, lost in NBA Finals)

During the Sixers’ decade of success between 1976 and 1986, the franchise made four Finals appearances. While only one resulted in victory, it’s still an impressive feat — one that illustrates just how good that era of Sixers basketball was.

The Sixers’ 1980 Finals run was similar to the others — a deep team, a strong culture under Billy Cunningham and Julius Erving leading the charge. It was also boosted by Maurice Cheeks, who was a mere sophomore at the time.

With Erving spearheading the perimeter attack, Cheeks operated as the conductor. He led the train where it needed to go, whipping on-point passes and epitomizing the now-extinct label of ‘pure point guard.’

The Sixers also had valuable role players, such as Steve Mix and Henry Bibby, to help shoulder the load. It was a talented team with a strong bench. More than enough to live up to the Sixers’ overwhelming potential.

Unfortunately, it did end in heartbreak. The Lakers would end up winning the Finals in six games. Rookie Magic Johnson led the way, dropping 42 points in Game 6 while filling in at center for an injured Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

It was part of the string of events that culminated in 1983, though. While the Sixers struggled to get over the hump for years, it can hardly be considered failure. In the ever-shifting NBA, the Sixers were a constant threat for 10 years. That shouldn’t be taken lightly.